14 DAY TRIAL // League of Legends is one of the most successful multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games out there because it has varied and evolving champions and mechanics, at least according to developer Riot Games.
League of Legends is a true global phenomenon, bringing together tens of millions of players and lots of professional eSports organizations. The title, made by Riot Games, is a success story and the studio has no plans of stopping supporting the experience.
Quite the opposite, according to Lead Designer Ryan Scott, who shared some of the principles guiding his team when it comes to League of Legends on the official blog.
According to the developer, an important aspect of the game is variety, in terms of both champions and mechanics. Champions need to be diverse in order to encourage teamplay, while mechanics need to be explained, so that players don't get confused and abandon the experience.
"Rather than designing champions who do everything, we create distinct roles to enhance teamplay. Marksmen deal tons of damage, but they'll likely deal tons more with a tank up front and a support by their side. Teamplay is also an avenue for self-expression," he said.
The clarity for mechanics also extends to the visual effects of different champion abilities, as players need to be able to tell what abilities their allies and their enemies are casting.
"Clarity means we want distinct, transparent mechanics in everything we design. When the outcome of a game hinges on a player’s ability to quickly assess the situation, information needs to be clear and accessible. This doesn't mean we tell players the best play to make, but we should make sure they have the right info to make calls as best they can."
Last but not least, League of Legends needs to be able to evolve in all sorts of ways, as players demand constant changes and improvements so that the experience doesn't get stale, according to Scott.
"Players and designers are both a part of the League of Legends experience and evolution doesn't come through inaction. Our commitment to evolution means we can keep League healthy and dynamic over a number of years. Mistakes will be made along the way, but with player feedback and consistent iteration, we can create a constantly improving, ever-evolving game."
League of Legends is set to receive more changes in the near future, as Riot wants to eliminate any balance problems ahead of the upcoming European championship at the Wembley stadium in London.